Sphagnum Moss Uses for Plants

Sphagnum is a genus of mosses which are all collectively known by the common name of sphagnum moss, but there are around 300 individual species. Many of these have their own specific common name, but they are all types of sphagnum moss. They may also be known as quacker moss or bog moss, the latter due to their common habitats being peat bogs.

In addition to its association with peat, sphagnum moss is a type of nonvascular plant used in gardening. It is a moss with a central stem and small green leaves surrounding it. They are known for retaining large amounts of water and reproduce by spores. This allows them to cover a large amount of ground if left to grow unhindered.

When sphagnum moss accumulates in its natural habitat, it can be harvested without causing harm to the environment. When sphagnum moss dies, it accumulates in bogs with new moss growing overtop. After many thousands of years, this accumulated moss compresses and degrades under anaerobic conditions to create peat. This should not be confused with the sphagnum moss which is used for plants in horticulture.

As we have already mentioned, this sphagnum moss can be used to help other plants grow and achieve their full potential. This is done by adding sphagnum moss to gardening substrates as a means of enhancing soil quality. The benefits and uses of sphagnum moss include:

• Moisture retention: this moss thrives in humid conditions, retaining over 25 times its weight in water due to the large amount of space created by its cells. This is very useful for incorporating into plants that require high levels of water, such as tropical plants. Discover another way to ensure moisture in your garden with our article exploring the benefits of rice water for plants.
• Reduction of bacterial and fungal proliferation: the cells of this moss species release phenolic compounds, helping to reduce bacteria and fungi present in the environment. These pathogenic microbes can kill plants through various means, such as root rot.
• Substrate for epiphytes: since sphagnum moss is not soil, it can be used as a medium for epiphytic plants, such as orchids or bromeliads. These are types of plants which cannot grow directly in soil.
• Root protection: when shipping plants across the world, they are often packed in sphagnum moss as it helps retain moisture and keep the roots well-aerated. This quality is also useful in containers and pots.
• Rooting of plants: this moss stimulates the root system, so it helps to root plants for growth.
• Germination medium: thanks to its rooting ability and prevention of the formation of fungi, it is an excellent medium for germinating seeds with a high survival rate.
• Soil acidification: its pH is 3.5 to 4, which means it's useful for acid-loving plants such as different types of azaleas. Adding a little to the substrate will help acidify the soil.

Using sphagnum moss at home might seem intimidating at first, but it is very intuitive and easy. It is usually sold dried, but you can purchase live sphagnum moss in some places. You will need to prepare the moss once you receive it. Dried moss must be hydrated so you can manipulate it and form it into shape. Live moss should be moist, but it's advisable to moisten it further to ensure it is stabilized.

Always wear gloves or wash your hands thoroughly when handling moss. This is because it can contain pathogens or allergens. Below are some guidelines for different uses.

Sphagnum moss as a substrate

• For epiphytes: as stated in our guide to sphagnum moss uses, you can use pure sphagnum moss as a substrate for epiphytic plants. These include different types of orchids and bromeliads, the latter extracting water from the air rather than roots. Simply add a bottom layer to a pot and then place the plant in, filling in any empty spaces with more moss.
• For terrestrial plants: if you want to use it on terrestrial plants, you should do so in combination with other ingredients. You should also consider that it will work better for plants that require high humidity, such as daisies. Use equal parts worm castings, peat and sphagnum moss. Add a handful of some drainage material, such as perlite or vermiculite, depending on your water drainage needs.

Sphagnum moss as a breeding medium

Due to its ability to stimulate roots quickly, it can be used for different types of plant propagation and reproduction:

• For grafting: if you want to reproduce a plant by grafting, place a bag of damp moss where you made the layering to encourage new roots.
• For germination: you can also place seeds inside sphagnum moss. Keeping it moist and sealed will help the seedling sprout quickly.

If you want to experiment with germinating seeds, discover how to plant a pumpkin from a seed or sprout with our related guide.

Moss plays an important role in ecosystems, helping to form soil, harboring biodiversity, producing oxygen, sequestering carbon dioxide and other functions. This is why moss should never be harvested directly from forests. It may even be illegal under regulations in different countries. When harvested properly, sphagnum moss growth rate means it can be done so sustainably.

Unfortunately, not all sphagnum moss providers are as scrupulous as others. Choose your sphagnum moss from reputable companies that have certifications or marketing regulations. These companies typically include labels and seller information. Avoid purchasing sphagnum moss if it doesn't come with packaging, as it's most likely from illegal sources.

You can buy moss at gardening stores that sell substrate or order it from online gardening stores. It can be purchased live, dehydrated in strips or even compacted for use as a seedbed or nursery for planting and germinating seeds. There are also sphagnum blocks that can be used to make vertical walls, so be sure to choose the format that best suits your project.

We have already explained that sphagnum moss is not the same as peat moss. Check out our related guide if you want to learn about how different types of peat moss can be used to benefit your plants.

If you are interested in purchasing this moss for your plants, you can use the link we provide below:

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